The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) and LSU’s Center for Analytics & Research in Transportation Safety (CARTS) report that rear-end crashes are the most common type of wreck in Louisiana.
A rear-end collision happens when one car hits the back of another. It might sound minor, but these crashes can still cause serious injuries and damage.
In the 2023 Louisiana Traffic Records Summary Report, Louisiana recorded:
- 38,100 injury crashes, and
- 104,300 property-damage-only crashes.
Of these, rear-end collisions made up more than one out of every three multi-vehicle crashes statewide — far more than T-bone, sideswipe, or head-on wrecks. That means thousands of Louisiana drivers are hit from behind every year.
Rear-end in Baton Rouge and Ascension Parish
In Baton Rouge and Ascension Parish, rear-end wrecks are also the top crash type. Local police and CARTS data show they often happen on busy, high-traffic roads like I-10, I-12, Highway 30, and Airline Highway, where traffic slows or stops suddenly.
In one serious case from December 2023, a rear-end crash on LA-44 in Ascension Parish led to multiple injuries and fatalities. This shows how dangerous these crashes can be—even when they start as routine traffic stops.
Another major case in the Baton Rouge Metropolitan area resulted in a $2,000,000 truck accident settlement.
Attorney Chris represented two clients who were rear-ended by a commercial truck. One client suffered neck injuries, including soft tissue strains, kyphosis, spondylolisthesis, and a herniated disc with foraminal narrowing. The second client had spinal stenosis and an aggravation of two pre-existing herniated discs. This case highlights how even one rear-end crash—especially with a big truck—can cause lifelong injuries.
Related: Qualities to Look for in a Car Wreck Lawyer in Louisiana
Why Do Rear-End Crashes Happen?
Most of these crashes happen because of driver error or Louisiana’s challenging road conditions. Here are the most common causes:
- Distracted driving: texting, checking GPS, or adjusting music instead of watching the road.
- Tailgating: following too closely and not leaving enough space to stop.
- Sudden braking: quick stops at red lights, intersections, or in traffic jams.
- Wet or slick roads: rain and standing water make it harder to stop safely.
- Rush-hour congestion: Baton Rouge and Gonzales see heavy traffic during morning and evening commutes.
Even at low speeds, rear-end crashes often cause whiplash, neck pain, and back injuries that may not show symptoms until hours later.
Rear-End Crashes Are Usually Not Fatal — But Still Serious
Rear-end crashes are less likely to cause deaths than head-on or T-bone collisions, but they still lead to serious injuries. The front and back ends of cars absorb much of the impact, which helps protect passengers—but not completely.
Victims often deal with neck and back pain, concussions or headaches, spinal disc injuries, vehicle damage and long repair times, medical bills and missed work.
When a truck or larger vehicle causes the rear-end crash, the impact is much stronger. These cases often lead to severe spinal injuries or permanent pain.
Related: How Long After a Car Accident Can Injuries Appear?
How to Avoid Rear-End Crashes
You can prevent most rear-end crashes by driving carefully and giving yourself time to react:
- Keep a three-second gap between your car and the one ahead.
- Avoid distractions — put your phone down while driving.
- Brake early and gently when traffic slows.
- Drive slower in rain or fog.
- Make sure your brake lights work.
These simple steps can save you from a crash on roads like Highland Road, LA-44, or the I-10 ramps near Gonzales.
What To Do After a Rear-End Crash
If you’re hit from behind in Baton Rouge or Ascension Parish, here’s what to do:
- Pull over safely and turn on your hazard lights.
- Check for injuries and call 911.
- Take photos of all vehicles and the scene.
- Exchange information with the other driver and any witnesses.
- Get medical help — even if you feel fine at first.
- Call a local car accident attorney to protect your rights.
Louisiana law uses comparative fault, meaning more than one driver can share blame. Having an experienced lawyer helps you get fair compensation.
Final Thoughts
Rear-end collisions are the most common type of crash in Louisiana. Whether it’s a small fender-bender or a major $2 million truck case, every crash matters. Stay alert, keep your distance, and slow down — small choices can prevent big problems on Louisiana roads.
If you or someone you love is hurt in a car wreck, Call Corzo at (225) 351-0459 because help, respect, and justice are only one call away.